By Mark Abromaitis
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

“This is the party of all parties,” says Marie DiCostanza, director of residence life at Maris Grove. “It’s a way for everyone to cut loose, and have a fun time on campus. It celebrates all of the best things about Maris Grove and the Brandywine area. Plus, all proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships go to an extremely worthy cause.”

The first annual Maris Grove Gala will be held October 6 and feature fine dining and live music. The theme, “The Gifts of the Brandywine Valley,” will bring everyone together by involving all of the guests in various ways.

A reason to party
“It’s really our one-year anniversary of opening,” says Pam Matschat, a Maris Grove retirement counselor. “And what better way to celebrate than with the people who make our community so great—the residents.”

“We filled our first neighborhood in record time so there’s something to celebrate—this is a great opportunity to get to know your neighbors and raise money for a good cause,” she adds.

Something for everyone
DiCostanza says that a band with its own horn section will be providing the music all night, and the party will feature an elaborate food menu featuring some of the best signature dishes from local restaurants.

The John Hoey Orchestra will provide the sounds of Motown; Chicago; Tower of Power; Blood, Sweat and Tears; Tommy Dorsey; Glenn Miller; Frank  Sinatra; and others throughout the evening.

“They cover everything from the music of the 1930s all the way up,” DiCostanza explains. “There shouldn’t be an empty spot on the dance floor.”

All for a good cause
All of the money that the gala raises will go directly to the Benevolent Care Fund for Maris Grove residents in need.

“Maris Grove and Erickson Communities are committed to providing residents with a home for life. In the company’s 24 years of operation, no one has ever been forced to leave a community due to financial hardship, and that’s possible because of the Benevolent Care Fund,” Matschat says.